X GAMES NOTES

Confusion Angers Fans

About 200 angry fans waited in line for replacement tickets Thursday, just as the opening event for the X Games began. Most said they had bought their tickets months before, only to find their seats covered with tarp or their views obstructed.

"This has been poorly organized," said Doug Hagen of Woodland Hills, whose son traveled from Phoenix for the event.

Chris Stiepock, general manager of the X Games, said a few rows close to the arena floor were "killed" at the request of the safety director. Because the skateboard ramp and motorcycle jumps covered more space than they did last year, the safety director wanted more of a buffer for fans. Portions of the competition area were also redesigned, altering camera positions and blocking more views.